Balami Foundation launch tuition-free aviation scholarship programs for youth
Foremost aircraft engineer and President of Isaac Balami Foundation, engr. Isaac Balami has launched a tuition free scholarship programs aimed at empowering 160 youths from across Nigeria who desire to pursue a career in aviation.
The foundation announced in Lagos on Tuesday that the programme is part of the Isaac Balami Foundation Youth Empowerment Scheme (iYES), which began on February 3, 2025 as the initiative is designed to empower qualified Nigerian youths eager to pursue careers in the aviation industry.
The program commenced with orientation activities at Aviatrix Hub, followed by an excursion to 7star Global Hangar, a key funding partner and the vision of the Foundation’s President, Engr. Isaac Balami.
Participants also visited the proposed campus of the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM), where they interacted with various partners and stakeholders involved in the scholarship program.
Various speakers urged the beneficiaries to seize the scholarship opportunity and focus on their studies to make a positive impact in the aviation sector.
Speaking, Engr. Isaac Balami said “What took some of us 15 to 20 years to achieve, my vision is to help you accomplish in the next 5 years, if you are determined.”
Also, Accountable Managers of the two partnering Approved Training Organizations (ATOs), Aviatrix Hub and Leadstream Aviation, Mrs. Victoria Adegbe and Engr. Roland Ahmed, emphasized the importance of preparation for the upcoming training.
Mrs. Adegbe remarked, “We are ready and set to train you. You must study and give your best; there is no room for failure. We are here to prepare you for the future of the aviation industry.”
On his part, Ahmed highlighted the critical nature of safety in aviation, and informed the students that every decision matters.
According to him, “The speed of an aircraft is nearly as swift as the speed of light. It’s crucial that you take this opportunity seriously and strive for excellence.”
Executive Director of the Foundation, Mrs. Obioma Madu Udealor had earlier welcomed the beneficiaries and urged them to recognize the contributions of the Foundation and its partners.
“Welcome to the program! You are already experiencing more than you might have expected. We are providing you with numerous resources and experiences to help you excel in this industry. Please make our efforts count.” She enthused.
Other speakers included 7star Global Hanger Group Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Nneka Ebru Ekpe and the Project Director Dr. Joshua Abbey.
Speaking on the sideline of the induction ceremony, the beneficiaries expressed their gratitude, sharing their struggles and aspirations.
“I had given up on this dream before I found this opportunity and applied. I received the offer just a day before my birthday.” one told journalists.
Another added that “I travelled from my village in Cross River State for this training. Today was the first time I’ve ever been close to an aircraft and even entered one.”
A student from Borno State recounted how she was once told she had no future ambition due to her lofty dreams of becoming an aviator, but her late father encouraged her. “I was ready to give up on my dreams, but my father, on his sickbed, urged me not to lose hope. He said that help would come.”
Originally announced by Isaac Balami to commemorate his 40th birthday on August 25, 2024, he said the scholarship program reflects the Foundation’s commitment to nurturing talent and creating opportunities for those passionate about aviation.
The Isaac Balami Foundation commended individuals and organizations supporting the scholarship initiative, including 7star Global Hangar, 7star Global Airline, Aviatrix Hub (ATO), Leadstream Aviation (ATO), and Nigeria International Airshow.
Their invaluable contributions are instrumental in shaping the future of aspiring aviation professionals and enhancing the landscape of the aviation industry in Nigeria, it said in an electronic statement.
